Os museus de ciências e as mulheres cientistas: o caso das Irmãs Figueiredo

Abstract

This research presents an analysis of women in the fields of science and museums, outlining the history of the construction of such scientific fields and highlighting the intrinsic androcentric logic present in these processes. To illustrate these characteristics, the case of the Figueiredo Sisters is examined, scientists who dedicated part of their lives, in a self-taught and autonomous way, to the study of Entomology. This remarkable work originated in the entomological collection of the Natural History Museum of the Catholic University of Pelotas. The methodological procedures adopted are qualitative and descriptive, employing bibliographical research. For the case study, archival research, interviews and visits to different institutions were carried out. Therefore, it was identified that, when considering museums as spaces with essential social functions for society, it is crucial to consider the responsibility of embracing different social narratives, including gender ones. In science museums, this inclusion plays a key role in deconstructing stereotypes, highlighting important and important female contributions as a source of inspiration for future scientists.